first-principles-clarity

Separate facts from assumptions and test competing explanations to reach conclusions.

10|1|Updated Feb 22, 2026

Search Tags:#analysis #reasoning #evidence #uncertainty #bias #decision-making

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/marcocello/dot-codex --skill first-principles-clarity

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: first-principles-clarity
Source: https://github.com/marcocello/dot-codex/tree/main/skills/first-principles-clarity
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/marcocello/dot-codex --skill first-principles-clarity

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you untangle confusing situations, challenge assumptions, and reach a more accurate conclusion when beliefs, decisions, or conflicts are clouded by bias, ego, or weak evidence.

Core Features & Use Cases

Evidence-first reasoning: Separates facts, inferences, assumptions, values, and unknowns so the real problem is easier to see.
Competing explanations: Forces strong alternatives to compete, including disconfirming evidence and counterexamples.
Decision support under uncertainty: Helps with truth-seeking, reversible vs. irreversible choices, and identifying the smallest test that can change the answer.
Use case: You are unsure whether to change strategy, trust a belief, or interpret a disagreement, and you want a grounded analysis rather than a comforting story.

Quick Start

Use the first-principles-clarity skill to analyze this situation, separate facts from assumptions, and give me the best current conclusion with the strongest objection.

Frequently Asked Questions about first-principles-clarity

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I separate facts from assumptions when making high-uncertainty decisions?▼

To separate facts from assumptions during high-uncertainty decisions, use evidence grading and reality mapping to categorize inputs into facts, inferences, values, and unknowns. This structured reasoning approach isolates verified evidence from biased beliefs.

What is the best way to analyze a confusing conflict clouded by bias and weak evidence?▼

The best way to analyze a conflict clouded by bias is to map competing explanations and test them against disconfirming evidence. Forcing alternatives to compete reduces ego bias and reveals the most accurate current conclusion.

How do I test competing explanations to reach an accurate conclusion?▼

You test competing explanations by identifying disconfirming evidence and counterexamples for each scenario. Evaluating tradeoffs and incentives helps determine which explanation survives assumption testing and yields the most grounded conclusion.

Can I use first-principles reasoning for decision support under uncertainty?▼

Yes, you can use first-principles reasoning for decision support under uncertainty. It helps distinguish reversible versus irreversible choices and identifies the smallest test that can change your strategic answer.

When should I use evidence grading instead of trusting my instincts on a strategy change?▼

Use evidence grading instead of instincts when facing irreversible choices or high-uncertainty strategy changes. It forces reality mapping and tests assumptions against disconfirming evidence, preventing comforting but inaccurate stories from driving decisions.